New Sheriff Named; Reedsport Grant; Book Sale; Smoke Ready Week; Elder Abuse Week

New Sheriff Named

Carl Wilkerson has been unanimously appointed Lane County Sheriff by the Board of Commissioners and will serve through 2026. With more than 30 years in law enforcement, Wilkerson began as a cadet and rose through the ranks to Chief Deputy in 2019. He’s held leadership roles in patrol, investigations, traffic safety, and emergency operations, including during the Holiday Farm Fire. A graduate of the FBI National Academy, Wilkerson says he’s honored to continue serving the community. If elected in 2026, he would begin a full four-year term in 2027.

Reedsport Grant

The Reedsport Main Street Program has received a $400,000 grant from Oregon Heritage as part of the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant program. The funds, part of over $10.6 million awarded statewide, will support eight projects in Reedsport aimed at boosting downtown vitality and economic growth. Among them: 281 Rainbow Plaza will see roof repairs, new doors, and a fresh coat of paint, while 776 Railroad will receive plumbing upgrades, electrical work, and a new heat pump. The grant program, created in 2015, prioritizes rural communities and may continue if funded by the 2025 legislature.

Book Sale

Thousands of books will be up for grabs this weekend as the Friends of the Siuslaw Public Library host their annual summer book sale in Florence. The event takes place Saturday, June 14 from 10 to 4 and Sunday, June 15 from 10 to 3 at the main library on Ninth Street. Early entry is available for members from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday. On Sunday afternoon, shoppers can fill a paper bag with books for just $3. More than 7,000 titles will be offered, with proceeds benefiting library programs and services.

Smoke Ready Week

This week is Smoke Ready Week in Oregon, and the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency is urging residents to prepare for wildfire smoke before it arrives. With wildfires now a regular summer threat, LRAPA and other agencies are promoting the SMOKE framework: Stay informed, Minimize exposure, Optimize your air, Keep a plan, and Ease your mind. Tips include sealing windows and doors, using HEPA filters, and checking air quality at fire.airnow.gov. Simple steps now can protect your health and keep indoor air safe throughout the wildfire season.

Elder Abuse Week

June 15 marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, and Oregon’s Division of Financial Regulation is reminding residents to be alert for signs of elder financial exploitation. Older adults, especially those who are isolated or in poor health, are prime targets for scammers. Warning signs include sudden changes in banking activity, unexplained loans, or new, overly involved acquaintances. The National Council on Aging estimates that 1 in 10 seniors experience abuse, with annual financial losses reaching into the billions. Anyone suspecting abuse is urged to call Oregon’s abuse hotline at 855-503-SAFE or visit dfr.oregon.gov for resources.